Numerical study on vehicle stability under crosswind conditions on desert highways

To address the significant impact of strong crosswinds on vehicle driving stability on desert highways, this study employs the aerodynamic six-component force theory and utilizes the vehicle dynamics simulation software CarSim to analyze the stability of small and medium-sized SUVs under varying wind speeds (17.1 m/s, 20.7 m/s, 24.4 m/s, and 28.4 m/s) and vehicle speeds (60 km/h, 80 km/h, 100 km/h, and 120 km/h), with driver operation effects excluded. The results show that both lateral displacement and yaw angle increase significantly with rising wind speed and vehicle speed. Medium-sized SUVs are more susceptible to crosswind effects than small SUVs, exhibiting higher risks of instability and rollover. Although sand accumulation thickness affects the road surface friction coefficient, its influence on lateral vehicle stability is relatively minor. The findings indicate that aerodynamic effects have a much greater impact on vehicle stability than road friction under desert highway conditions. As wind and vehicle speeds increase, the lateral safety offset distance grows while the available reaction time decreases. This study develops a vehicle stability evaluation model under desert crosswind conditions and proposes critical indicators such as the lateral slip risk threshold. The results provide a theoretical basis for the design of highway cross-sections and windproof engineering, as well as a reference for optimizing vehicle active control strategies in desert environments, thereby contributing to improved driving safety on high-speed desert roads.